諸經要集 7.41

7.41

The Buddha told the elder: “Death cannot be avoided; what has gone cannot be pursued.” The elder addressed the Buddha: “What were this boy's past offenses and merits?” The Buddha said: “In a past life, this boy loved giving and respected others; by reason of this merit he was born into an eminent and wealthy family. But he loved hunting and harming, causing his lifespan to be short. Offenses and merits follow a person like a shadow following a form.” The elder leaped for joy and attained the forbearance of the Dharma.